Electronic plumbing fixture fitting

ABSTRACT

The present invention provides an electronic plumbing fixture fitting, such as an electronic faucet.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.61/607,860, filed Mar. 7, 2012, the entire disclosure of which is herebyincorporated by reference.

FIELD

The present invention relates generally to an electronic plumbingfixture fitting, such as an electronic faucet.

BACKGROUND

Electronic plumbing fixture fittings, such as electronic faucets, arewell known. Such electronic plumbing fixture fittings are used inresidential and commercial applications, such as in kitchens, bathrooms,and various other locations. Many difficulties can be encountered inmanufacturing, assembling, installing, and using typical electronicplumbing fixture fittings.

SUMMARY

The present invention provides an electronic plumbing fixture fitting.In an exemplary embodiment, the electronic plumbing fixture fittingcomprises a discharge outlet, an electronic valve, a first mechanicalvalve, a second mechanical valve, and a flow module. The dischargeoutlet is operable to deliver water. The electronic valve is operable topermit flow of water through the discharge outlet when the electronicvalve is activated and to prevent flow of water through the dischargeoutlet when the electronic valve is deactivated. The first mechanicalvalve is in parallel with the electronic valve. The first mechanicalvalve is operable to permit flow of water through the discharge outletwhen the first mechanical valve is activated and to prevent flow ofwater through the discharge outlet when the first mechanical valve isdeactivated. The second mechanical valve is in series with theelectronic valve. The second mechanical valve is operable tomechanically control the temperature of the flowing water while theelectronic valve is activated. The flow module is operable to mountbelow a mounting surface. The electronic valve and the second mechanicalvalve are located inside the flow module.

In another exemplary embodiment, the electronic plumbing fixture fittingcomprises a discharge outlet, an electronic valve, a sensor, and acontrol for the sensor. The discharge outlet is operable to deliverwater. The electronic valve is operable to permit flow of water throughthe discharge outlet when the electronic valve is activated and toprevent flow of water through the discharge outlet when the electronicvalve is deactivated. The sensor is operable to send a signal when thesensor is triggered. The control is operable to receive the signal fromthe sensor when the sensor is triggered and, in response, send a signalto the electronic valve to activate the electronic valve. A portion ofthe control is not unique to the sensor and a portion of the control isunique to the sensor. The portion of the control that is not unique tothe sensor is stored separate from the portion of the control that isunique to the sensor.

In a further exemplary embodiment, the electronic plumbing fixturefitting comprises a discharge outlet, an electronic valve, a sensor, anda control for the sensor. The discharge outlet is operable to deliverwater. The electronic valve is operable to permit flow of water throughthe discharge outlet when the electronic valve is activated and toprevent flow of water through the discharge outlet when the electronicvalve is deactivated. The sensor is operable to send a signal when thesensor is triggered. The control being operable to receive the signalfrom the sensor when the sensor is triggered and, in response, send asignal to the electronic valve to activate the electronic valve. Thecontrol includes a control program and control data. The control programis not unique to the sensor. The control data is unique to the sensor.The control for the sensor is stored in more than one location.

In a still further exemplary embodiment, the electronic plumbing fixturefitting comprises a discharge outlet, an electronic valve, a firstsensor, a second sensor, a first control for the first sensor, and asecond control for the second sensor. The discharge outlet is operableto deliver water. The electronic valve is operable to permit flow ofwater through the discharge outlet when the electronic valve isactivated and to prevent flow of water through the discharge outlet whenthe electronic valve is deactivated. The first sensor is operable tosend a first signal when the first sensor is triggered. The secondsensor is operable to send a second signal when the second sensor istriggered. The first control is operable to receive the first signalfrom the first sensor when the first sensor is triggered and, inresponse, send a third signal to the electronic valve to activate theelectronic valve. The first control includes a first control program andfirst control data. The first control program is not unique to the firstsensor. The first control data is unique to the first sensor. The secondcontrol is operable to receive the second signal from the second sensorwhen the second sensor is triggered and, in response, send a fourthsignal to the electronic valve to activate the electronic valve. Thesecond control includes a second control program and second controldata. The second control program is not unique to the second sensor. Thesecond control data is unique to the second sensor. The first controlfor the first sensor is stored in more than one location. The secondcontrol for the second sensor is stored in more than one location.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of an electronic plumbing fixturefitting according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of an electronic faucet according toan exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an electronic faucet with a togglesensor and a presence sensor according to an exemplary embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 4 is a right side elevational view of the electronic faucet of FIG.3, including a toggle zone corresponding to the toggle sensor and apresence zone corresponding to the presence sensor;

FIG. 5 is a schematic illustration of certain components of theelectronic faucet of FIG. 3, including certain electronic components;

FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of certain components of theelectronic faucet of FIG. 3, including certain sensor components;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the electronic faucet of FIG. 6, withthe sensor components assembled and installed in the electronic faucet;

FIGS. 8A-8B are perspective views of certain components of theelectronic faucet of FIG. 3, including the toggle sensor and a cableprotector before being connected together;

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of certain components of the electronicfaucet of FIG. 3, including the toggle sensor and a hose sensor;

FIGS. 10A-10D are views of a flow module and an electronics module ofthe electronic faucet of FIG. 3-FIG. 10A is a perspective view, FIG. 10Bis a top plan view, FIG. 10C is a front elevational view, and FIG. 10Dis a bottom plan view;

FIG. 11 is a front elevational view of the flow module and theelectronics module of FIGS. 10A-10D, with the electronics moduleseparate from the flow module;

FIG. 12 is a front elevational view of the flow module and theelectronics module of FIG. 11, with the electronics module connected tothe flow module;

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the flow module of FIGS. 11 and 12;

FIG. 14 is a front elevational view of a hose bracket of the electronicfaucet of FIG. 3;

FIG. 15 is a schematic illustration of the flow module and theelectronics module of the electronic faucet of FIG. 3 mounted beneath asink;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the hose bracket of FIG. 14 beforebeing connected to a flexible hose;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the hose bracket of FIG. 14 after beingconnected to the flexible hose, but before being connected to a mountingshank;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the hose bracket of FIG. 14 after beingconnected to the flexible hose and the mounting shank, but beforeflexible hoses are connected to each other; and

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the flow module, the electronicsmodule, and the hose bracket of the electronic faucet of FIG. 3 afterbeing completely assembled and installed beneath a mounting surface.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention provides an electronic plumbing fixture fitting.In an exemplary embodiment, the electronic plumbing fixture fitting isan electronic faucet. However, one of ordinary skill in the art willappreciate that the electronic plumbing fixture fitting could be anelectronic showerhead, an electronic handheld shower, an electronic bodyspray, or any other electronic plumbing fixture fitting.

An exemplary embodiment of an electronic plumbing fixture fitting 10,such as an electronic faucet 12, is illustrated in FIG. 1. Exemplaryembodiments of the electronic faucet 12 are illustrated in FIGS. 2-19.

In the illustrated embodiments, as best shown in FIG. 3, the faucet 12includes a hub 14, a spout 16, a wand hose 18, a wand 20, and a handle22. An upstream end of the hub 14 is connected to a mounting surface(such as a counter or sink). An upstream end of the spout 16 isconnected to a downstream end of the hub 14. The spout 16 is operable torotate relative to the hub 14. The wand hose 18 extends through the hub14 and the spout 16 and is operable to move within the hub 14 and thespout 16. An upstream end of the wand 20 is mounted in a downstream endof the spout 16 and is connected to a downstream end of the wand hose18. A downstream end of the wand 20 includes a discharge outlet 24through which water is delivered from the faucet 12. The wand 20 isoperable to pull away from the spout 16. The handle 22 is connected to aside of the hub 14 and is operable to move relative to the hub 14.Although the faucet 12 has been described as having a rotatable spout16, a pull-out or pull-down wand 20, and a handle 22 mounted on the hub14, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that, in certainembodiments, the spout 16 could be fixed relative to the hub 14, thefaucet 12 may not include a wand 20, the handle 22 may be mounted onother locations on the faucet 12 or remote from the faucet 12, and/orthe handle 22 may be any mechanical or other device that can be used tooperate a mechanical valve.

Additionally, in the illustrated embodiments, as best shown in FIGS. 1and 3, the fitting 10 includes a hot water line 26, a cold water line28, a mixed water line 30, a mechanical valve 32, and an electronicvalve 34. The hot water line 26 includes a common portion 36, amechanical valve portion 38, and an electronic valve portion 40. Thecold water line 28 includes a common portion 42, a mechanical valveportion 44, and an electronic valve portion 46. The mixed water line 30includes a mechanical valve portion 48, an electronic valve portion 50,and a common portion 52.

An upstream end of the common portion 36 of the hot water line 26connects to a hot water supply 54, and an upstream end of the commonportion 42 of the cold water line 28 connects to a cold water supply 56.A downstream end of the common portion 36 of the hot water line 26connects to a hot water tee 58, and a downstream end of the commonportion 42 of the cold water line 28 connects to a cold water tee 60.

An upstream end of the mechanical valve portion 38 of the hot water line26 connects to the hot water tee 58, and an upstream end of themechanical valve portion 44 of the cold water line 28 connects to thecold water tee 60. A downstream end of the mechanical valve portion 38of the hot water line 26 connects to the mechanical valve 32, and adownstream end of the mechanical valve portion 44 of the cold water line28 connects to the mechanical valve 32.

An upstream end of the electronic valve portion 40 of the hot water line26 connects to the hot water tee 58, and an upstream end of theelectronic valve portion 46 of the cold water line 28 connects to thecold water tee 60. A downstream end of the electronic valve portion 40of the hot water line 26 connects to the electronic valve 34, and adownstream end of the electronic valve portion 46 of the cold water line28 connects to the electronic valve 34.

An upstream end of the mechanical valve portion 48 of the mixed waterline 30 connects to the mechanical valve 32, and an upstream end of theelectronic valve portion 50 of the mixed water line 30 connects to theelectronic valve 34. A downstream end of the mechanical valve portion 48of the mixed water line 30 connects to a mixed water tee 62, and adownstream end of the electronic valve portion 50 of the mixed waterline 30 connects to the mixed water tee 62.

An upstream end of the common portion 52 of the mixed water line 30connects to the mixed water tee 62. A downstream end of the commonportion 52 of the mixed water line 30 connects to the discharge outlet24.

In the illustrated embodiments, as best shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, thecommon portion 52 of the mixed water line 30 is the wand hose 18, and anupstream end of the wand hose 18 connects to the mixed water tee 62. Asstated above, the downstream end of the wand hose 18 connects to theupstream end of the wand 20.

In the illustrated embodiments, each portion of the hot water line 26,the cold water line 28, and the mixed water line 30 includes one or morehoses. For example, the common portion 52 of the mixed water line 30(also referred to as the wand hose 18) includes two hoses. However, oneof ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that each portion of thehot water line 26, the cold water line 28, and the mixed water line 30that includes one hose could include more than one hose, and eachportion of the hot water line 26, the cold water line 28, and the mixedwater line 30 that includes more than one hose could include one hose.In an exemplary embodiment, the hoses are flexible hoses. However, oneof ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that other types of hosescould be used. If a portion of the hot water line 26, the cold waterline 28, or the mixed water line 30 includes more than one hose, thehoses are connected via connectors. In an exemplary embodiment, theconnectors are push-fit connectors. However, one of ordinary skill inthe art will appreciate that other types of connectors could be used.

When reference is made to one component of the faucet 12 connecting toanother component of the faucet 12, the connection may be direct orindirect. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate thatadditional components may be needed if the connection is indirect.

As described above, the mechanical valve 32 and the electronic valve 34are in parallel. However, one of ordinary skill in the art willappreciate that, in certain embodiments, the mechanical valve 32 and theelectronic valve 34 could be in series.

In an exemplary embodiment, the electronic valve 34 is a solenoid valve.However, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that theelectronic valve 34 could be any type of electronic valve, including,but not limited to, an electronic throttle or proportional valve and anelectronic mixing valve.

As described above, the faucet 12 includes a mechanical valve 32 and anelectronic valve 34. However, one of ordinary skill in the art willappreciate that the faucet 12 could include an electronic valve, withouta mechanical valve. In an embodiment including an electronic valvewithout a mechanical valve, one of ordinary skill in the art willappreciate that the faucet 12 will not include other components relatedto the mechanical valve, such as a handle and water lines connected tothe mechanical valve.

In the illustrated embodiments, as best shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, thefaucet 12 includes a flow module 64, an electronics module 66, and apower module 68. The flow module 64 and the electronics module 66 arefurther shown in FIGS. 10A-10D, 11, 12, and 13. The flow module 64includes a number of inlets and outlets and a number of flow passages.These inlets/outlets and flow passages enable the easy management of theflow between the incoming supplies (i.e., the hot water supply 54 andthe cold water supply 56) and the wand 20. The flow module 64 reducesthe number of hoses required to implement the faucet 12 with theelectronic valve 34 in parallel with the mechanical valve 32. Theelectronics module 66 includes a number of electronic components. Thesecomponents enable the activation and deactivation of the electronicvalve 34. In the illustrated embodiments, the electronics module 66 isconnected to the flow module 64. The power module 68 provides electricalpower to electronic components of the faucet 12.

Further, in the illustrated embodiments, as best shown in FIGS. 3, 4,and 6, the faucet 12 includes a toggle sensor 70 and a presence sensor72.

In an exemplary embodiment, the toggle sensor 70 is a proximity sensorand, in particular, an infrared sensor. The toggle sensor 70 can also bereferred to as a latching sensor or a sustained-flow sensor. In theillustrated embodiments, the toggle sensor 70 is mounted on an apex ofthe spout 16. The toggle sensor 70 defines a toggle zone 74, as bestshown in FIG. 4. In an exemplary embodiment, the toggle sensor 70 isoperable to activate the electronic valve 34 when an object enters thetoggle zone 74 and to deactivate the electronic valve 34 when the objectexits and reenters the toggle zone 74. As a result, once the electronicvalve 34 is activated by a triggering of the toggle sensor 70, theelectronic valve 34 remains activated until the toggle sensor 70 is nexttriggered. As used herein, an “object” can be any portion of a user'sbody or any item used by the user to trigger the toggle sensor 70. Inthe illustrated embodiments, the toggle zone 74 extends generallyupwardly from the toggle sensor 70. Additionally, in the illustratedembodiments, the toggle zone 74 has a generally cone-like or fan-likeshape.

In an exemplary embodiment, the presence sensor 72 is a proximitysensor, and, in particular, an infrared sensor. The presence sensor 72can also be referred to as a quick-strike sensor. In the illustratedembodiments, the presence sensor 72 is mounted on the upstream end ofthe spout 16. In an alternative embodiment, the presence sensor 72 ismounted beneath the apex of the spout 16. The presence sensor 72 definesa presence zone 76, as best shown in FIG. 4. In an exemplary embodiment,the presence sensor 72 is operable to activate the electronic valve 34when an object enters the presence zone 76 and to deactivate theelectronic valve 34 when the object exits the presence zone 76. As aresult, once the electronic valve 34 is activated by a triggering of thepresence sensor 72, the electronic valve 34 only remains activated aslong as the presence sensor 72 is continuously triggered. Again, as usedherein, an “object” can be any portion of a user's body or any item usedby the user to trigger the presence sensor 72. In the illustratedembodiments, the presence zone 76 extends generally horizontally fromthe presence sensor 72. In the alternative embodiment, the presence zone76 extends generally downwardly from the presence sensor 72.Additionally, in the illustrated embodiments, the presence zone 76 has agenerally cone-like or fan-like shape.

In an exemplary embodiment, the toggle zone 74 and the presence zone 76are designed to prevent unintentional activation of the electronic valve34. The toggle zone 74 and the presence zone 76 correspond to the user'sexpectations of where an object should be in order to trigger the togglesensor 70 and the presence sensor 72.

In an exemplary embodiment, if the user desires to deactivate the togglesensor 70 and/or the presence sensor 72 (e.g., to clean the faucet 12),the user takes a predetermined action above the mounting surface of thefaucet 12 to indicate whether the user desires to deactivate the togglesensor 70, the presence sensor 72, or both sensors. In a furtherexemplary embodiment, if the user desires to deactivate the togglesensor 70 and/or the presence sensor 72, the user selectively covers thepresence sensor 72 and/or the toggle sensor 70 for a predeterminedperiod of time. In a still further exemplary embodiment, if the userdesires to deactivate both the toggle sensor 70 and the presence sensor72, the user covers the toggle sensor 70 for at least five seconds.However, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that otheractions could be taken to deactivate the toggle sensor 70 and/or thepresence sensor 72.

As described above, the toggle sensor 70 and the presence sensor 72 areproximity sensors and, in particular, infrared sensors. Proximitysensors are sensors that detect the presence of an object without anyphysical contact. However, one of ordinary skill in the art willappreciate that the sensors could be any type of electronic sensors thatcan be triggered, including, but not limited to, other proximitysensors, touch sensors, and image sensors. Exemplary electronic sensorsinclude, but are not limited to, electromagnetic radiation sensors (suchas optical sensors and radar sensors), capacitance sensors, inductancesensors, piezo-electric sensors, and multi-pixel optical sensors (suchas camera sensors). Moreover, the toggle sensor 70 and the presencesensor 72 may not be the same type of sensor. As further describedabove, the toggle sensor 70 is mounted on the apex of the spout 16 andthe presence sensor 72 is mounted on the upstream end of the spout 16or, alternatively, is mounted beneath the apex of the spout 16. However,one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the sensors couldbe mounted in any location on the faucet 12 or in a location remote fromthe faucet 12. Furthermore, the toggle sensor 70 and the presence sensor72 may be located in close proximity to each other or fairly remote fromeach other.

Similarly, as described above, the sensors are a toggle sensor 70 and apresence sensor 72. However, one of ordinary skill in the art willappreciate that the sensors could be any type of sensors that provideinformation useful in determining whether to activate or deactivate themechanical valve 32 and/or the electronic valve 34, including, but notlimited to, flow sensors, pressure sensors, temperature sensors, andposition sensors. Moreover, the toggle sensor 70 and the presence sensor72 may be the same type of sensor.

The toggle sensor 70 has a control associated with it. Similarly, thepresence sensor 72 has a control associated with it. The controls forthe toggle sensor 70 and the presence sensor 72 receive signals from thesensors and send signals to other components of the faucet 12 inresponse to the signals received from the sensors. Each control includesa control program and control data. During operation, the controlprogram receives the signals from the sensors and sends the signals tothe electronic valve 34 or other electronic components of the faucet 12to control operation of the components of the faucet 12. For example,the control program will receive a signal from the presence sensor 72when an object enters the presence zone 76. In response to this signal,the control program will send a signal to activate the electronic valve34. In an exemplary embodiment, the control data includes calibrationconstants.

The control program is not unique to each individual sensor. Generally,the same control program is used for all sensors of a specificembodiment that are manufactured at the same time. However, the controldata is unique to each individual sensor. The controls for the sensorsneed to be calibrated. A first calibration occurs during manufactureand/or assembly and accounts for differences between components ofindividual sensors. A second calibration occurs after installation andaccounts for differences in the environment of the sensors. Since thecalibrations account for differences between individual sensors andtheir environments, the calibrations result in control data that isunique for each individual sensor.

In an exemplary embodiment, the control for the toggle sensor 70 isstored in more than one location. Similarly, the control for thepresence sensor 72 is stored in more than one location.

In an exemplary embodiment, the control program 78 for the toggle sensor70 and the control program 80 for the presence sensor 72 are storedoutside the portion of the faucet 12 that houses the sensors. In afurther exemplary embodiment, the control program 78 for the togglesensor 70 and the control program 80 for the presence sensor 72 arestored in the electronics module 66. In a still further exemplaryembodiment, the control program 78 for the toggle sensor 70 and thecontrol program 80 for the presence sensor 72 are stored in data storage(such as flash memory 82 in a processor 84 on a printed circuit board86, as best shown in FIG. 5) in the electronics module 66.

In an exemplary embodiment, the control data 88 for the toggle sensor 70and the control data 90 for the presence sensor 72 are stored inside theportion of the faucet 12 that houses the sensors. In a further exemplaryembodiment, the control data 88 for the toggle sensor 70 and the controldata 90 for the presence sensor 72 are stored inside the spout 16. In astill further exemplary embodiment, the control data 88 for the togglesensor 70 and the control data 90 for the presence sensor 72 are storedinside the upstream end of the spout 16. In a still further exemplaryembodiment, the control data 88 for the toggle sensor 70 and the controldata 90 for the presence sensor 72 are stored in data storage (such asan EPROM 92 on a printed circuit board 94, as best shown in FIG. 5) inthe presence sensor 72.

As a result, the portions of the controls that are not unique to thesensors are stored separate from the portions of the controls that areunique to the sensors. In the exemplary embodiments, the portions of thecontrols that are not unique to the sensors are stored outside theportion of the faucet 12 that houses the sensors and, in particular, inthe electronics module 66 and, further in particular, in the datastorage in the electronics module 66. Additionally, the portions of thecontrols that are unique to the sensors are stored inside the portion ofthe faucet 12 that houses the sensors and, in particular, inside thespout 16 and, further in particular, in or near the presence sensor 72inside the upstream end of the spout 16 and, further in particular, inthe data storage in the presence sensor 72. Although the controls havebeen described in specific exemplary locations, one of ordinary skill inthe art will appreciate that the controls could be in other locations solong as the portions of the controls that are not unique to the sensorsare stored separate from the portions of the controls that are unique tothe sensors.

Due to the separation of the controls for the toggle sensor 70 and thepresence sensor 72, the operation of the toggle sensor 70 and thepresence sensor 72 is not linked to the operation of the electronicsmodule 66. As a result, these components can be separately manufactured,assembled, installed, and calibrated. Moreover, if any of thesecomponents fails, all of the components do not need to be replaced. Thefailed component can be replaced without affecting the operation of theremaining components.

Due to the separation of the controls for the toggle sensor 70 and thepresence sensor 72, the size of the spout 16 can be significantlyreduced. In an exemplary embodiment, the size of the spout 16 is nolarger than the size of spouts for typical non-electronic faucets havingsimilar designs. In a further exemplary embodiment, an inner diameter ofthe spout 16 is less than or equal to one inch. A reduction in the sizeof the spout 16 enables greater design options for the faucet 12.

In the illustrated embodiments, the toggle sensor 70 is electricallyconnected to the presence sensor 72. More specifically, acommunications/power cable 96 connects the toggle sensor 70 to thepresence sensor 72, as best shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. Additionally, in theillustrated embodiments, the toggle sensor 70 has mounting structureassociated with it. More specifically, the toggle sensor 70 has a window98 and a retainer 100 that maintain the toggle sensor 70 in position onthe apex of the spout 16.

In the illustrated embodiments, the presence sensor 72 is electricallyconnected to the electronics module 66. More specifically, acommunications/power cable 102 connects the presence sensor 72 to theelectronics module 66, as best shown in FIGS. 3, 5, and 6. Additionally,in the illustrated embodiments, the presence sensor 72 has mountingstructure associated with it. More specifically, the presence sensor 72has a window 104, a clip 106, and a housing 108 that maintain thepresence sensor 72 on the upstream end of the spout 16.

As described above, the toggle sensor 70 is connected to the presencesensor 72 via the communications/power cable 96, and the presence sensor72 is connected to the electronics module 66 via communications/powercable 102. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciatethat, in certain embodiments, one or more of these connections could bewireless.

In the illustrated embodiments, as best shown in FIGS. 6, 7, and 8, thefaucet 12 includes a cable protector 110. The cable protector 110generally extends between the toggle sensor 70 and the presence sensor72. The cable protector 110 includes an insertion portion 112, a barrierportion 114, and an alignment feature 116.

The insertion portion 112 is connected to the toggle sensor 70. In theillustrated embodiments, the insertion portion 112 includes grippingmembers 118 that enable the insertion portion 112 to connect to thetoggle sensor 70. Once the gripping members 118 are connected to thetoggle sensor 70, insertion of the cable protector 110 into the spout 16results in insertion of the toggle sensor 70 into the spout 16.

The barrier portion 114 extends along a substantial portion of a lengthof the communications/power cable 96. In the illustrated embodiments,the barrier portion 114 includes a generally flat elongated member 120that enables the barrier portion 114 to shield the communications/powercable 96 from other components in the spout 16, such as the wand hose18. As the wand 20 is pulled away from the spout 16 and causes the wandhose 18 to move through the spout 16, the cable protector 110 preventsthe wand hose 18 from contacting and, possibly, damaging thecommunications/power cable 96.

The alignment feature 116 positions the communications/power cable 96along the barrier portion 114 of the cable protector 110. In theillustrated embodiments, the alignment feature 116 includes opposingtabs 122 projecting from the barrier portion 114 that enable thealignment feature 116 to maintain the communications/power cable 96 inposition against the barrier portion 114.

Once the cable protector 110 is inserted into the spout 16, thecommunications/power cable 96 extends along a rear inner surface 124 ofthe spout 16. In an exemplary embodiment, the cable protector 110 ismade of a semi-rigid material.

In the illustrated embodiments, as best shown in FIG. 9, the faucet 12includes a hose sensor 126. In an exemplary embodiment, the hose sensor126 is a proximity sensor and, in particular, an infrared sensor.However, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the hosesensor 126 could be any type of sensor that can be triggered, asdiscussed above with regard to the toggle sensor 70 and the presencesensor 72. In the illustrated embodiments, the hose sensor 126 ismounted beneath the toggle sensor 70. However, one of ordinary skill inthe art will appreciate that the hose sensor 126 could be mounted in anylocation along the spout 16. The hose sensor 126 is directed toward thewand hose 18 inside the spout 16. In an exemplary embodiment, the hosesensor 126 is operable to determine when the wand hose 18 is movedthrough the spout 16 and to send a signal indicating when the wand hose18 is moved through the spout 16.

In the illustrated embodiments, the wand hose 18 includes a markedportion 128 and an unmarked portion 130. The marked portion 128 caninclude any marking that enables the hose sensor 126 to distinguish themarked portion 128 from the unmarked portion 130. In an exemplaryembodiment, the marked portion 128 is separately formed from the wandhose 18 and then connected to the wand hose 18. In an exemplaryembodiment, the marked portion 128 is integrally formed with the wandhose 18. In an exemplary embodiment, the marked portion 128 has adifferent reflective property than the unmarked portion 130. The hosesensor 126 is operable to determine when the wand hose 18 is movedthrough the spout 16.

When the wand hose 18 has not been moved through the spout 16, themarked portion 128 is adjacent to (i.e., below) the hose sensor 126. Inthis position, the hose sensor 126 detects the marked portion 128 anddetermines that the wand hose 18 has not been moved through the spout16. When the wand hose 18 has been moved through the spout 16, themarked portion 128 is no longer adjacent to (i.e., below) the hosesensor 126. In this position, the hose sensor 126 does not detect themarked portion 128 and determines that the wand hose 18 has been movedthrough the spout 16.

In the illustrated embodiments, the wand hose 18 includes a plurality ofmarked portions 128. Again, the marked portions 128 can include anymarking that enables the hose sensor 126 to distinguish the markedportions 128 from the unmarked portion 130 and each marked portion 128from the other marked portions 128. In an exemplary embodiment, themarked portions 128 are separately formed from the wand hose 18 and thenconnected to the wand hose 18. In an exemplary embodiment, the markedportions 128 are integrally formed with the wand hose 18. In anexemplary embodiment, each marked portion 128 has a different reflectiveproperty than the unmarked portion 130 and each marked portion 128 has adifferent reflective property than the other marked portions 128. Thehose sensor 126 is operable to determine when the wand hose 18 is movedthrough the spout 16 and how far the wand hose 18 has been moved throughthe spout 16.

When the wand hose 18 has not been moved through the spout 16, a firstmarked portion 128A is adjacent to (i.e., below) the hose sensor 126. Inthis position, the hose sensor 126 detects the first marked portion 128Aand determines that the wand hose 18 has not been moved through thespout 16. When the wand hose 18 has been moved through the spout 16, thefirst marked portion 128A is no longer adjacent to (i.e., below) thehose sensor 126 and a second marked portion 128B or a subsequent markedportion is adjacent to (i.e., below) the hose sensor 126. In thisposition, the hose sensor 126 does not detect the first marked portion128A and determines that the wand hose 18 has been moved through thespout 16. Additionally, in this position, the hose sensor 126 detectsthe second marked portion 128B or the subsequent marked portion anddetermines how far the wand hose 18 has been moved through the spout 16based on which marked portion 128 the hose sensor 126 detects.

Since the hose sensor 126 determines when and how far the wand hose 18has been moved through the spout 16 (i.e., extended out of the spout 16or refracted into the spout 16), the hose sensor 126 can be used tocontrol operation of other components of the faucet 12. For example,when the hose sensor 126 determines that the wand hose 18 has been movedthrough the spout 16, a signal can be sent to activate or deactivate theelectronic valve 34. Additionally, when the hose sensor 126 determinesthat the wand hose 18 has been moved through the spout 16, a signal canbe sent to activate or deactivate the toggle sensor 70 and/or theposition sensor. Further, when the hose sensor 126 determines that thewand hose 18 has been moved through the spout 16, a signal can be sentto change a hierarchy that governs operation of the toggle sensor 70 andthe presence sensor 72.

In the illustrated embodiments, as best shown in FIG. 3, the flow module64 is operable to mount below the mounting surface (such as the counteror sink). The mechanical valve 32 is located outside the flow module 64,and the electronic valve 34 is located inside the flow module 64. In theillustrated embodiments, as best shown in FIGS. 10A-10D, 11, and 12, theflow module 64 includes a first side 132 and a second side 134. Thefirst side 132 is opposite the second side 134. Edges 136 of the flowmodule 64 are chamfered so that the water lines/hoses do not catch onthe edges 136.

In the illustrated embodiments, as best shown in FIGS. 1, 3, 10A-10D,and 13, the flow module 64 includes the following inlets:

1. a cold water inlet 138 operable to receive cold water from the coldwater supply 56—as illustrated, the cold water inlet 138 fluidlyconnects to the common portion 42 of the cold water line 28,

2. a hot water inlet 140 operable to receive hot water from the hotwater supply 54—as illustrated, the hot water inlet 140 fluidly connectsto the common portion 36 of the hot water line 26, and

3. a mixed water inlet 142 operable to receive mixed water from themechanical valve 32—as illustrated, the mixed water inlet 142 fluidlyconnects to the mechanical valve portion 48 of the mixed water line 30.

In the illustrated embodiments, as best shown in FIGS. 1, 3, 10A-10D,and 13, the flow module 64 includes the following outlets:

1. a cold water outlet 144 operable to discharge cold water to themechanical valve 32—as illustrated, the cold water outlet 144 fluidlyconnects to the mechanical valve portion 44 of the cold water line 28,

2. a hot water outlet 146 operable to discharge hot water to themechanical valve 32—as illustrated, the hot water outlet 146 fluidlyconnects to the mechanical valve portion 38 of the hot water line 26,and

3. a mixed water outlet 148 operable to discharge mixed water from themechanical valve 32 or the electronic valve 34 to the discharge outlet24—as illustrated, the mixed water outlet 148 fluidly connects to thecommon portion 52 of the mixed water line 30 (also referred to as thewand hose 18).

In the illustrated embodiments, the cold water inlet 138, the hot waterinlet 140, and the mixed water outlet 148 are in the first side 132 ofthe flow module 64. Additionally, the cold water outlet 144, the hotwater outlet 146, and the mixed water inlet 142 are in the second side134 of the flow module 64.

In the illustrated embodiments, as best shown in FIGS. 1, 3, 10A-10D,and 13, the flow module 64 includes the following flow passages:

1. a first cold water passage 150 operable to fluidly connect the coldwater inlet 138 and the cold water outlet 144—as illustrated, the firstcold water passage 150 includes a portion of the common portion 42 ofthe cold water line 28, the cold water tee 60, and a portion of themechanical valve portion 44 of the cold water line 28,

2. a second cold water passage 152 operable to fluidly connect the coldwater inlet 138 and the electronic valve 34—as illustrated, the secondcold water passage 152 includes a portion of the common portion 42 ofthe cold water line 28, the cold water tee 60, and the electronic valveportion 46 of the cold water line 28—as illustrated, a portion of thefirst cold water passage 150 is common with a portion of the second coldwater passage 152,

3. a first hot water passage 154 operable to fluidly connect the hotwater inlet 140 and the hot water outlet 146—as illustrated, the firsthot water passage 154 includes a portion of the common portion 36 of thehot water line 26, the hot water tee 58, and a portion of the mechanicalvalve portion 38 of the hot water line 26,

4. a second hot water passage 156 operable to fluidly connect the hotwater inlet 140 and the electronic valve 34—as illustrated, the secondhot water passage 156 includes a portion of the common portion 36 of thehot water line 26, the hot water tee 58, and the electronic valveportion 40 of the hot water line 26—as illustrated, a portion of thefirst hot water passage 154 is common with a portion of the second hotwater passage 156,

5. a first mixed water passage 158 operable to fluidly connect the mixedwater inlet 142 and the mixed water outlet 148—as illustrated, the firstmixed water passage 158 includes a portion of the mechanical valveportion 48 of the mixed water line 30, the mixed water tee 62, and aportion of the electronic valve portion 50 of the mixed water line 30,and

6. a second mixed water passage 160 operable to fluidly connect theelectronic valve 34 and the mixed water outlet 148—as illustrated, thesecond mixed water passage 160 includes the electronic valve portion 50of the mixed water line 30, the mixed water tee 62, and a portion of thecommon portion 52 of the mixed water line 30—as illustrated, a portionof the first mixed water passage 158 is common with a portion of thesecond mixed water passage 160.

In the illustrated embodiments, the first mixed water passage 158includes a flow sensor 162. The flow sensor 162 detects whether themechanical valve 32 is activated. In an exemplary embodiment, the flowsensor 162 is a turbine sensor. The use of a turbine sensor enables thehydraulics module to be mounted horizontally or vertically. However, oneof ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that, in certainembodiments, other types of sensors could be used to determine whetherthe mechanical valve 32 is activated, including, but not limited to,pressure sensors and position sensors.

In the illustrated embodiments, as best shown in FIGS. 3, 17, 18, and19, the faucet 12 includes a mounting shank 164. The mounting shank 164extends downwardly from the hub 14. The mounting shank 164 extendsthrough and below the mounting surface (such as the counter or sink).The mounting shank 164 has a hollow interior 166. The mounting shank 164has a threaded exterior 168. The mounting shank 164 has an inlet 170 andan outlet 172. The outlet 172 of the mounting shank 164 extends into thehub 14.

In the illustrated embodiments, as best shown in FIGS. 3, 14, and 16,the faucet 12 includes a hose bracket 174. The hose bracket 174 includesa mounting portion 176 and a guide portion 178. The mounting portion 176is connected to the mounting shank 164. More specifically, the mountingportion 176 includes a threaded bore 180 that enables the mountingportion 176 to thread onto the mounting shank 164. The guide portion 178is connected to the wand hose 18 that delivers water from the flowmodule 64 to the wand 20 (also referred to as the common portion 52 ofthe mixed water line 30). More specifically, the guide portion 178includes a curved channel 182 that enables the guide portion 178 toclamp onto the wand hose 18.

The hose bracket 174 positions the wand hose 18 between the mixed wateroutlet 148 and the inlet of the mounting shank 164 such that a portionof the wand hose 18 extends in a loop 184 between the hose bracket 174and the inlet of the mounting shank 164. As a result, the hose bracket174 ensures that the wand hose 18 is properly aligned relative to thehub 14 and the spout 16 through which the wand hose 18 extends andmoves. When the wand hose 18 is properly aligned relative to the hub 14and the spout 16, the wand 20 can be easily pulled away from andreturned to the spout 16.

Due to the use of the flow module 64 in conjunction with the hosebracket 174, the flow module 64 can be mounted in multiple locationsbeneath the mounting surface without affecting the operation of the wand20. As shown in FIG. 15, the flow module 64 is mounted on a back wall ofa space beneath the sink. Alternatively, the flow module 64 can bemounted on a side wall of the space beneath the sink (as shown by therectangle with hatched lines in FIG. 15).

To install the hose bracket 174 in the faucet 12, the hose bracket 174is connected to the wand hose 18 that delivers water from the flowmodule 64 to the wand 20 (also referred to as the common portion 52 ofthe mixed water line 30). More specifically, the guide portion 178 ofthe hose bracket 174 is clamped onto the wand hose 18. Additionally, thehose bracket 174 is connected to the mounting shank 164. Morespecifically, the mounting portion 176 of the hose bracket 174 isthreaded onto the mounting shank 164.

FIG. 16 shows the hose bracket 174 before being connected to the wandhose 18. FIG. 17 shows the hose bracket 174 after being connected to thewand hose 18, but before being connected to the mounting shank 164. FIG.18 shows the hose bracket 174 after being connected to both the wandhose 18 and the mounting shank 164, but before the two hoses of the wandhose 18 are connected to each other. Finally, FIG. 19 shows the flowmodule 64 and the hose bracket 174 after being completely assembled andinstalled beneath the mounting surface.

As used herein, “activate a valve” means to move the valve to ormaintain the valve in an open position, regardless of the volume ortemperature of the flowing water, “deactivate a valve” means to move thevalve to a completely closed position, and “trigger a sensor” means thesensor detects a stimulus (e.g., the presence of an object) and sends asignal to activate or deactivate a valve in response to that detection.

During operation of the mechanical valve 32, the user activates anddeactivates the mechanical valve 32 using the handle 22. When the usermanually moves the handle 22 to an open position, the mechanical valve32 is activated. While the mechanical valve 32 is activated, the faucet12 operates as a standard faucet. As with standard faucets, the user cancontrol the volume and temperature of the flowing water by furthermanually moving the handle 22 in the open position. Additionally, whilethe mechanical valve 32 is activated, the electronic valve 34 cannot beactivated by the user. This can be accomplished by preventing theelectronic valve 34 from opening or preventing the toggle sensor 70 andthe presence sensor 72 from triggering. When the user manually moves thehandle 22 to a closed position, the mechanical valve 32 is deactivated.While the mechanical valve 32 is deactivated, the electronic valve 34can be activated and deactivated and the toggle sensor 70 and thepresence sensor 72 can be triggered by the user.

During operation of the electronic valve 34, the user activates anddeactivates the electronic valve 34 using the toggle sensor 70 and/orthe presence sensor 72.

When the user triggers the toggle sensor 70 (i.e., when an object entersthe toggle zone 74), the electronic valve 34 is activated. In anexemplary embodiment, the user cannot electronically control the volumeand temperature of the flowing water. When the user again triggers thetoggle sensor 70 (i.e., when the object exits and reenters the togglezone 74), the electronic valve 34 is deactivated. Successive triggeringof the toggle sensor 70 alternately activates and deactivates theelectronic valve 34.

Additionally, when the user triggers the presence sensor 72 (i.e., whenan object enters the presence zone 76), the electronic valve 34 isactivated. In an exemplary embodiment, the user cannot electronicallycontrol the volume and temperature of the flowing water. When the userno longer triggers the presence sensor 72 (i.e., when the object exitsthe presence zone 76), the electronic valve 34 is deactivated.

When reference is made to activating or deactivating a valve “when asensor is triggered,” the valve may be activated or deactivatedimmediately upon the sensor triggering or a predetermined period of timeafter the sensor has triggered. Similarly, when reference is made toactivating or deactivating a valve “when an object enters a zone” or“when an object exits a zone,” the valve may be activated or deactivatedimmediately upon the object entering or exiting the zone or apredetermined period of time after the object has entered or exited thezone.

In an exemplary embodiment, while the electronic valve 34 is activated,the user cannot electronically control the volume and temperature of theflowing water. Instead, the volume and/or temperature of the flowingwater are mechanically controlled by mechanical apparatus in theelectronic valve portion 40 of the hot water line 26, the electronicvalve portion 46 of the cold water line 28, and/or the electronic valveportion 50 of the mixed water line 30. In the illustrated embodiments,the mechanical apparatus includes a mechanical mixing valve 186 in theelectronic valve portion 40 of the hot water line 26 and the electronicvalve portion 46 of the cold water line 28. In another exemplaryembodiment, the mechanical apparatus includes a throttle or choke valvein the electronic valve portion 40 of the hot water line 26 and theelectronic valve portion 46 of the cold water line 28. However, one ofordinary skill in the art will appreciate that, in certain embodiments,the faucet 12 could include a mixing and volume controlling electronicvalve 34 together with additional sensors and/or a user interface thatwould enable the user to electronically control the volume and/ortemperature of the flowing water.

Due to the use of the electronic valve 34 in conjunction with themechanical apparatus to mechanically control the volume and/ortemperature of the flowing water while the electronic valve 34 isactivated, the electronic valve 34 can be in parallel with themechanical valve 32 while still providing volume and/or temperaturecontrol for the electronic valve 34.

1. An electronic plumbing fixture fitting, comprising:

-   -   a discharge outlet, the discharge outlet being operable to        deliver water;    -   an electronic valve, the electronic valve being operable to        permit flow of water through the discharge outlet when the        electronic valve is activated and to prevent flow of water        through the discharge outlet when the electronic valve is        deactivated;    -   a sensor, the sensor being operable to send a signal when the        sensor is triggered; and    -   a control for the sensor, the control being operable to receive        the signal from the sensor when the sensor is triggered and, in        response, send a signal to the electronic valve to activate the        electronic valve, a portion of the control not being unique to        the sensor and a portion of the control being unique to the        sensor;    -   wherein the portion of the control that is not unique to the        sensor is stored separate from the portion of the control that        is unique to the sensor.

2. The electronic plumbing fixture fitting of 1, wherein the portion ofthe control that is not unique to the sensor is stored outside a portionof the fitting that houses the sensor.

3. The electronic plumbing fixture fitting of 1, wherein the portion ofthe control that is unique to the sensor is stored inside a portion ofthe fitting that houses the sensor.

4. The electronic plumbing fixture fitting of 1, wherein the portion ofthe control that is not unique to the sensor is stored in an electronicsmodule that is outside a spout of the fitting.

5. The electronic plumbing fixture fitting of 1, wherein the portion ofthe control that is unique to the sensor is stored inside a spout of thefitting.

6. The electronic plumbing fixture fitting of 1, wherein an innerdiameter of a spout of the fitting is less than or equal to one inch.

7. An electronic plumbing fixture fitting, comprising:

-   -   a discharge outlet, the discharge outlet being operable to        deliver water;    -   an electronic valve, the electronic valve being operable to        permit flow of water through the discharge outlet when the        electronic valve is activated and to prevent flow of water        through the discharge outlet when the electronic valve is        deactivated;    -   a sensor, the sensor being operable to send a signal when the        sensor is triggered; and    -   a control for the sensor, the control being operable to receive        the signal from the sensor when the sensor is triggered and, in        response, send a signal to the electronic valve to activate the        electronic valve, the control including a control program and        control data, the control program not being unique to the        sensor, the control data being unique to the sensor;    -   wherein the control for the sensor is stored in more than one        location.

8. The electronic plumbing fixture fitting of 7, wherein the controlprogram is stored outside a portion of the fitting that houses thesensor.

9. The electronic plumbing fixture fitting of 7, wherein the controldata is stored inside a portion of the fitting that houses the sensor.

10. The electronic plumbing fixture fitting of 7, wherein the controlprogram is stored in an electronics module that is outside a spout ofthe fitting.

11. The electronic plumbing fixture fitting of 7, wherein the controldata is stored inside a spout of the fitting.

12. The electronic plumbing fixture fitting of 7, wherein an innerdiameter of a spout of the fitting is less than or equal to one inch.

13. An electronic plumbing fixture fitting, comprising:

-   -   a discharge outlet, the discharge outlet being operable to        deliver water;    -   an electronic valve, the electronic valve being operable to        permit flow of water through the discharge outlet when the        electronic valve is activated and to prevent flow of water        through the discharge outlet when the electronic valve is        deactivated;    -   a first sensor, the first sensor being operable to send a first        signal when the first sensor is triggered;    -   a second sensor, the second sensor being operable to send a        second signal when the second sensor is triggered;    -   a first control for the first sensor, the first control being        operable to receive the first signal from the first sensor when        the first sensor is triggered and, in response, send a third        signal to the electronic valve to activate the electronic valve,        the first control including a first control program and first        control data, the first control program not being unique to the        first sensor, the first control data being unique to the first        sensor; and    -   a second control for the second sensor, the second control being        operable to receive the second signal from the second sensor        when the second sensor is triggered and, in response, send a        fourth signal to the electronic valve to activate the electronic        valve, the second control including a second control program and        second control data, the second control program not being unique        to the second sensor, the second control data being unique to        the second sensor;    -   wherein the first control for the first sensor is stored in more        than one location; and    -   wherein the second control for the second sensor is stored in        more than one location.

14. The electronic plumbing fixture fitting of 13, wherein the firstcontrol program and the second control program are stored outside aportion of the fitting that houses the first sensor and the secondsensor.

15. The electronic plumbing fixture fitting of 13, wherein the firstcontrol data is stored inside a portion of the fitting that houses atleast one of the first sensor and the second sensor.

16. The electronic plumbing fixture fitting of 13, wherein the secondcontrol data is stored inside a portion of the fitting that houses atleast one of the first sensor and the second sensor.

17. The electronic plumbing fixture fitting of 13, wherein the firstcontrol program and the second control program are stored in anelectronics module that is outside a spout of the fitting.

18. The electronic plumbing fixture fitting of 13, wherein the firstcontrol data is stored inside a spout of the fitting.

19. The electronic plumbing fixture fitting of 13, wherein the secondcontrol data is stored inside a spout of the fitting.

20. The electronic plumbing fixture fitting of 13, wherein the firstcontrol data is stored in the same location as the second control data.

One of ordinary skill in the art will now appreciate that the presentinvention provides an electronic plumbing fixture fitting. Although thepresent invention has been shown and described with reference to aparticular embodiment, equivalent alterations and modifications willoccur to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding thisspecification. The present invention includes all such equivalentalterations and modifications and is limited only by the scope of thefollowing claims in light of their full scope of equivalents.

What is claimed is:
 1. An electronic plumbing fixture fitting,comprising: a discharge outlet, the discharge outlet being operable todeliver water; an electronic valve, the electronic valve being operableto permit flow of water through the discharge outlet when the electronicvalve is activated and to prevent flow of water through the dischargeoutlet when the electronic valve is deactivated; a first mechanicalvalve, the first mechanical valve being in parallel with the electronicvalve, the first mechanical valve being operable to permit flow of waterthrough the discharge outlet when the first mechanical valve isactivated and to prevent flow of water through the discharge outlet whenthe first mechanical valve is deactivated; a second mechanical valve,the second mechanical valve being in series with the electronic valve,the second mechanical valve being operable to mechanically control thetemperature of the flowing water while the electronic valve isactivated; and a flow module, the flow module being operable to mountbelow a mounting surface, the electronic valve and the second mechanicalvalve being located inside the flow module.
 2. The electronic plumbingfixture fitting of claim 1, wherein the second mechanical valve isoperable to mechanically control the volume of the flowing water whilethe electronic valve is activated.